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I’m A Newbie: Runger

There’s this thing that happens to your body when you train to run a marathon. It’s called Runger. Runner + Hunger = Runger. And it’s a very real thing.

Just a girl and an empty pasta dish (and crazy eyes).

During peak training, you’re running more than ever. You’re burning more calories than you normally do. And, unless you’re an elite athlete, you’re not used to doing this much exercise.

Translation: you need to fuel accordingly.

Refueling with carbohydrates and protein within 30 minutes of workout replenishes depleted stores of energy and helps to repair muscles tissue faster. Additional fruits and veggies help to maintain a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals in your body while you’re pushing yourself to your physical limits.

Oh yeah, this happens regularly in my home.

A few ways to make sure you’re keeping up with your body’s needs:

Keep a food journal along with your running log.

Eat when you’re hungry.

Eat calorically dense foods like whole grains, meat, and legumes.

Eat the rainbow at every meal.

Eat a small snack between each meal.

Sometimes I get up in the middle of the night and eat a bowl of cereal during peak training weeks. It happens. Just don’t make it a habit, rather, for emergencies only.

Whatever you do, feed the beast. If you starve it, you’ll never get out of your runs (or race!) what you’re working so hard to achieve.

Concur on the no dieting. Earlier in my marathon training I tried to clean out my diet and eliminate starchy carbs. Oddly, I was always tired and needed frequent post-run naps. I have since made a no-dieting rule and my run has been MUCH better. I also have rediscovered my love of bagels.

Hi, I'm Abby! I'm a runner, coach, personal trainer, Lululemon Athletica Ambassador Alumni, and physical therapy student living and loving life in NYC. I love to run, eat and play with my husband and my very large family. What are you waiting for? Join me on my fitness journey--lace up those running shoes and change your life!

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